New microbial additive in EU feed 2026: what manufacturers must do

Key data

Feed manufacturers wishing to incorporate a new biological preservative into their formulations have had the legal pathway open since 27 May 2026. The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1020, published on 8 May 2026, formally authorizes the preparation Pediococcus pentosaceus NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357 as a technological additive in feed for all animal species.

This is not an obligation: no manufacturer is required to use this additive. However, those who decide to incorporate it must do so strictly within the framework established by this regulation, complying with the specific conditions of use, doses and labeling.

What does this regulation establish?

The regulation grants formal authorization to a microbial preparation for use as an additive in feed manufacturing. The key points are:

The additive acts as a biological preservative: the bacterium Pediococcus pentosaceus helps preserve the feed, reducing deterioration and improving its shelf life. Having passed the assessment by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), its use is supported from the perspective of safety for the animal, the end consumer and the environment.

Economic and operational impact

The authorization does not generate a direct mandatory cost for companies in the sector. However, those who decide to incorporate this additive into their formulations must assume the following operational impacts:

• Formulation updates: Review and modification of feed recipes where the additive is to be included, respecting authorized doses.
• Technical documentation: Update of technical sheets, product specifications and internal records to reflect the new ingredient and its compliance with Regulation 2026/1020.
• Labeling: Adaptation of the labeling of feed incorporating the additive, following the specific conditions set out in the regulation.
• Suppliers: Verification that the preparation purchased corresponds exactly to the code NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357, as the authorization is specific to this identifier.

From an opportunity perspective, having an authorized biological preservative for all species can provide a competitive advantage for manufacturers seeking alternatives to chemical preservatives or responding to market demands oriented towards more natural formulations.

Who does it affect?

• Feed manufacturers: Companies that produce compound animal feed and may want to incorporate this additive into their production lines.
• Livestock producers: Those who produce their own feed on farm and wish to use this biological preservative.
• Animal feed sector companies: Distributors, formulators and ingredient companies working with technological additives for feed.
• Quality and regulatory managers: Technicians and quality managers who must update documentation and ensure regulatory compliance in their facilities.

Practical example

A pig feed manufacturer currently using a chemical preservative in its standard formulation decides to evaluate the incorporation of Pediococcus pentosaceus NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357 as a biological alternative.

To do so legally as of 27 May 2026, it must:

1. Verify that the preparation purchased from the supplier corresponds exactly to the code NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357 authorized by Regulation 2026/1020.
2. Adjust the feed formulation respecting the doses and conditions of use established in the regulation.
3. Update the product technical sheet and internal traceability documentation.
4. Modify the feed labeling to reflect the presence of the additive in accordance with the specific labeling conditions of the regulation.

If the same manufacturer produces feed for other species (poultry, ruminants, aquaculture), it can apply the same additive to those lines, as the authorization covers all animal species.

What should companies do now?

1. Evaluate whether to incorporate the additive: Analyze whether Pediococcus pentosaceus NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357 fits the company's formulation strategy and the demands of the market it serves.
2. Review Regulation 2026/1020 in detail: Consult the specific conditions of use, authorized doses and labeling requirements before initiating any formulation modifications.
3. Verify suppliers: Ensure that the preparation purchased corresponds exactly to the identifier NCIMB 12674/DSM 35357, as the authorization is specific to this code.
4. Update technical documentation: Modify technical sheets, product specifications and traceability records to reflect the new additive and its regulatory compliance.
5. Adapt labeling: Review and update the labeling of feed incorporating the additive in accordance with the conditions set out in the regulation, before 27 May 2026 if immediate launch is planned.
6. Inform the quality and production team: Ensure that those responsible for quality, production and purchasing are aware of the regulation's requirements to avoid non-compliant uses.